The Nation : CBN, Citing Crisis, Pleads for Donations

Facing what it said is an unprecedented financial crisis, the Christian Broadcasting Network has mailed pleas to donors asking for emergency contributions. “CBN is dangerously close to eliminating many areas of our vital ministry,” said the letters, which were signed by Timothy Robertson, CBN president and son of Republican presidential candidate Pat Robertson. Contributions to the Virginia Beach, Va.-based CBN have fallen off so dramatically that the ministry may be forced to close satellite counseling centers nationwide, reducing key programs, such as its charitable arm, Operation Blessing, and eliminating others, Robertson told a Norfolk newspaper. CBN said it may also reduce the number of TV stations it pays to air its flagship show, “The 700 Club.” CBN officials, who say they need about $7 million a month for operating expenses, predict a $500,000 shortfall in March.